The psychological and social consequences of social media use : a review

The exponential growth and consumption of social media presents itself as an advantageous portal for communication and entertainment for many people around the world. However, burgeoning research is beginning to examine the potential of social media use in stimulating some negative changes in our psychological and social lives. The purpose of this paper is to present a literature review of both the documented positive and negative social and psychological consequences that social media use has upon individuals to better understand the impact that it has on our lives. The paper begins with an examination of 4 positive consequences of social media use, namely: lowered negative affect, enhanced family and peer relations, increased social capital, and increased social support for specialized populations. The review then explores 4 negative consequences of social media use: heightened feelings of jealousy and lowered life satisfaction, increased negative body image, negative impact on romantic relationships, and increased potential for cyberbullying. Subsequently, in the following section, several factors thought to influence the social and psychological consequences of social media use are examined. Overall, this review promotes a better understanding of the social and psychological consequences of social media use that extend beyond daily entertainment, and also highlights ripe areas for future research.Bachelor of Art